Slide (baseball)

In baseball, a slide is a maneuver executed by a baserunner while approaching a base. The primary purpose of a slide is to reach the base safely and quickly, often to avoid being tagged out by a fielder. Slides can also be used to break up potential double plays.

There are several types of slides commonly used in baseball:

• Straight-In Slide: This is the most basic type of slide, where the runner approaches the base headfirst or feet-first and slides directly into it. Feet-first slides are generally considered safer.

• Hook Slide (or Roundhouse Slide): In a hook slide, the runner angles their body toward the inside of the basepath and uses their foot or hand to hook the corner of the base. This can help avoid a tag and can be employed to maintain contact with the base.

• Pop-Up Slide: A pop-up slide is used primarily to avoid oversliding a base. The runner slides feet-first and then quickly stands up, maintaining contact with the base to avoid being tagged out if the fielder misses the initial tag attempt.

• Head-First Slide: While generally discouraged due to the increased risk of injury, some players use head-first slides. This is sometimes used when the runner believes it offers the best chance of reaching the base safely, or to avoid a tag above the waist.

Proper sliding technique involves controlling body position and minimizing contact with the fielder. Improper sliding can lead to injuries, both for the runner and the fielder. Rules exist regarding malicious slides intended to injure a fielder, particularly at second base during double-play attempts, and can result in penalties such as ejection.